Gr 4-8--Bial's simple, eloquent text explains how the Underground Railroad worked and why it was necessary, as well as the hardships involved in the journey north. The black-and-white period reproductions are good, but Bial's full-color photographs are what make this title outstanding. Many of them show historical sites, including houses that served as stations along the escape route. Several of them were taken at night, and so readers see the places as the fugitives themselves might have viewed them. The simple picture of a child's abandoned doll is a wonderful example of Bial's talent. Although some background knowledge of the Civil War and the institution of slavery is helpful in understanding this book, it can still be read and appreciated without that background. This title could be effectively combined with Charles L. Blockson's The Underground Railroad (Berkley, 1994) to add insight into the harrowing experiences of slaves during the Civil War.--Elizabeth M. Reardon, McCallie School, Chattanooga, TN